Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?ConnectionI believe there is nothing more important in life than building, developing and strengthening relationships. Strong Relationships have a positive impact on every aspect of life.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

Being part of the new design of the TECH Gala, my mother helped start the original TECH Holiday Tree Auction many years ago so it meant a lot to be part of the reinvigorating of this event.

I love the mission of TECH, the way it helps people with special needs live a full and engaging life despite their challenges.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?IndependenceMy favorite TECH pillar is "Independence" simply because of the independence and dignity the TECH organization makes possible for so many of their clients

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My favorite memory of TECH is the first Client Christmas party I attended with Michelle. This was 3 years before I joined the BOD but I will never forget the smiling faces and joy in the room. It embodied the true meaning of Christmas and left me with an impression I will never forget.

My wife, Michelle, was my influence to join this board. TECH is a cause very near and dear to her heart and "giving back" is an everyday passion for her. I guess it was contagious!

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthEvery person is valuable and wants to contribute in some form. TECH provides a means of helping their clients feel valuable through work, connections, and activities.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My favorite memory so far has been the opportunity to decorate Christmas bulbs for the Gala with some of the clients. This wasn’t necessarily in the capacity as a Board Member but I really enjoyed that experience.

The mission of TECH and the clients it services resonates with me personally as my nephew has Cerebral Palsy. He will one day need the types of services that TECH provides so I enjoy learning and being a part of an organization that fills the gap and provides amazing care and services to the clients it serves.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthWe each have our own gifts and abilities that are unique to us and make us who we are. Everyone has something to offer that can be appreciated by others, whether it is the people we serve, the staff, the board members, volunteers or community members. I love seeing people grow, and not only appreciate the gifts and talents of others, but also recognizing their own gifts and talents.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have so many memories and experiences of serving on the board it is hard to narrow it down to one! However, the thing the impresses me over and over again with the TECH Board is the thoughtful discussion and dialogue that takes place whenever there is a tough decision that must be made. The TECH Board has never lost sight of the Mission of the organization and what is best for the people we serve.

I am passionate about TECH and the people we serve because TECH is mission driven organization. TECH strives to assure every person has the opportunity to live a full life, however each individual may choose to define a full life. TECH supports people to live, work and play in our community, to be a part of the community and not just live in the community. TECH is passion.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?IndependenceTECH does a wonderful job of creating an environment where clients can live their lives the way they want to live and can be the people they want to be.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My favorite experience so far has been the grand opening of the Megli Art Gallery at the ALS building. What a positive thing for the clients, the staff, and the community!

I am humbled to be able to serve on the board of an organization that creates such a positive experience for its clients and its community. Good things don't happen on their own, and I will do my best to ensure that the legacy continues!

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthThere is much to be gained with feeling valued and taking pride in your work and yourself. To be a contributor to your community. To be relevant. So many great things blossom from a sense of self-worth.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have enjoyed emceeing the events and working with the clients in that capacity. Mostly I have enjoyed the Client Recognition Nights I have been able to attend. As Brenda calls it their Academy Awards. It’s awesome to see the joy on their faces as they are recognized.

TECH speaks to my passion of inclusiveness and aligns itself with a few of my favorite adages, "teach a man to fish" and "pick up your fellow man".

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthThe clients of TECH live their lives with productivity from early childhood till the end of life. They are allowed to use all the pillars of independence, creativity, connection and self-worth that are important to TECH and the people we serve. When I look at the passion of the staff here, they truly motive our clients to the fullest.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My husband, Mike and I were active volunteers for TECH before I came on the board. We loved being a part of an organization so vital to the community. As a board member, I remember the opening of the Art Gallery in the Wiley Building. I was so impressed with the work of our clients and how proud they were to display their work in such a wonderful venue. Talk about a TECH pillar, the opportunity of creativity and self-worth is over the top!

First, I was honored to be asked to serve on the board. I want to do my part to make sure TECH is supported by our community. I personally know from having a nephew with disabilities in a town where the services TECH provides are not available, how hard it can be on a family. I want to continue to educate others on how TECH can be of help.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthIndependence is the pillar that stands out the most for me. It is an important trait that parents teach to all of their children. But, it is even more important and more difficult to try to teach Independence to a child or adult with special needs. TECH provides opportunities for independence for their clients, which benefits both the client and the families.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I am constantly amazed by the people who work at TECH. Their passion, generosity and desire to make a difference in the lives of others is something I have loved witnessing and being a part of. So, my greatest experience is just getting to work alongside of so many wonderful people who have a passion for the clients they serve.

I am constantly amazed by the people who work at TECH. Their passion, generosity and desire to make a difference in the lives of others is something I have loved witnessing and being a part of. So, my greatest experience is just getting to work alongside of so many wonderful people who have a passion for the clients they serve.

Operations from 2011-2016, served as Chairperson during that term Foundation 2016 to present Returned to Operations 2018

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?CreativityTECH has made a lot of progress with new programs encouraging creativity in their clients. I have seen this beautiful direct correlation between creativity and self-worth. It is so fun to watch this process take place.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have so many. The opening of the Art Gallery and receiving the President’s Award definitely top the list.

I am called to serve my community. If I have the ability to do something that will make a difference, I should do it. TECH has a special place in my heart. It is a wonderful organization.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?CreativityI am so impressed by what our clients can accomplish when equipped with the proper tools, training, and support.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

Attending the client recognition banquet

I enjoy being part of a group focused on empowering our clients to be as successful and independent as possible. It's great to see our clients working and living in our community, living out happy and fulfilling lives.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?IndependenceI am going to cheat on this and pick two pillars as my favorites. Independence and self-worth are my favorite TECH Pillars, and I really think that both of these Pillars go together. Through independence many of those we serve develop self-worth. Learning how to use RCAT, or how to work at a job, or how to paint something which can be sold all promote independence and in turn provide self-worth.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My favorite time with TECH is the annual Client Service Awards ceremony.

• I look forward to again being involved with the many wonderful and dedicated people who make TECH what it is. The TECH team is so caring and dedicated, and does a remarkable job in providing services to those in need. It will be an honor to work with them.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthWhat a great thing to help someone else achieve, we all strive for it and when you possess it, you ensure the confidence to achieve anything!

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

Serving as co-chair for the 2018 Gala…it’s been fun to see it grow and change over the last 10 years and I am tremendously proud to work with Lacey and participate on a committee of such generous people!

I am excited to see how the funds I’ve helped raise over the years are put to work. I'm also looking forward to making deeper connections with fellow board members, staff, and clients.

Foundation Board

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthI am most interested in the Early Ed side of TECH, especially the self-worth and independence pillars. I wish I could find the time to help with the creativity pillar – perhaps in the future?

I have a strong Faith, and the quote that I think reflects my attitude about TECH is the one in which Christ says, “IF you have done it unto the least of these, you have done it unto me.”

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?CreativityTECH has made a lot of progress with new programs encouraging creativity in their clients. I have seen this beautiful direct correlation between creativity and self-worth. It is so fun to watch this process take place.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have so many. The opening of the Art Gallery and receiving the President’s Award definitely top the list.

I am called to serve my community. If I have the ability to do something that will make a difference, I should do it. TECH has a special place in my heart. It is a wonderful organization.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthBeing able to help individuals have more self-worth is invaluable. With being able to help the clients have more self-worth Tech is helping lower depression rates among clients, building mental strength in clients and giving clients the confidence to reach their full potential.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

By far my favorite experience and memory both are from client recognition night. I do not think there is a way to put into words how unbelievably amazing that night is. The pure joy shown on their faces as they are giving their awards along with their amazing speeches.

Being a part of change and growth in a community where inclusion for all those with disabilities is happening, where the dis is being removed and leaving ability for their clients; this is something that is strong in my heart and we should always strive to be on the side of making great change for those who are facing challenges.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthWe each have our own gifts and abilities that are unique to us and make us who we are. Everyone has something to offer that can be appreciated by others, whether it is the people we serve, the staff, the board members, volunteers or community members. I love seeing people grow, and not only appreciate the gifts and talents of others, but also recognizing their own gifts and talents.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have so many memories and experiences of serving on the board it is hard to narrow it down to one! However, the thing the impresses me over and over again with the TECH Board is the thoughtful discussion and dialogue that takes place whenever there is a tough decision that must be made. The TECH Board has never lost sight of the Mission of the organization and what is best for the people we serve.

I am passionate about TECH and the people we serve because TECH is mission driven organization. TECH strives to assure every person has the opportunity to live a full life, however each individual may choose to define a full life. TECH supports people to live, work and play in our community, to be a part of the community and not just live in the community. TECH is passion.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?CreativityBefore joining the TECH Foundation Board, I admired from afar the art and talent that the clients displayed. Once a part of the organization, it was amazing to hear the stories of the artists and how art provides fulfillment and a way to share their passion.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

My favorite experience since serving on the TECH Foundation Board was attending the unveiling of the TECH Foundation Legacy Society. This vision had been about a two year process and carried out wonderfully by the talented and dedicated staff of TECH.

Though I was new to the Hutchinson community, it was easy to see TECH's positive impact to this community. I was excited to be a part of the TECH Foundation Board where we work to grow the endowment to help support the great work by TECH long into the future.

I volunteered to serve TECH as soon as I moved here in 2010. Karen has experience as a teacher in Special Needs and our grandson, Collin, has autism. We are both passionate about serving any way we can for God's special people.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthEvery person should feel they have great self-worth, but many do not believe they do. TECH strives to make sure that everyone they touch knows their self-worth and continually helps them to make it grow.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I definitely enjoyed our HOPS beer making trip to El Dorado. It was a fun and educational day.

I was honored to be asked to serve on the TECH Foundation Board because I’ve witnessed first hand all the good they do and I want to be a part of that.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthThere is much to be gained with feeling valued and taking pride in your work and yourself. To be a contributor to your community. To be relevant. So many great things blossom from a sense of self-worth.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I have enjoyed emceeing the events and working with the clients in that capacity. Mostly I have enjoyed the Client Recognition Nights I have been able to attend. As Brenda calls it their Academy Awards. It’s awesome to see the joy on their faces as they are recognized.

TECH speaks to my passion of inclusiveness and aligns itself with a few of my favorite adages, "teach a man to fish" and "pick up your fellow man".

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthI believe everyone, regardless of their individual limitations, or life's challenges, is capable of being productive through meaningful work and engaging activities. And through this productivity, each individual can experience the joy of creating, making, or providing something that is valuable to others.

I am honored to have the opportunity to serve on the TECH Foundation Board. TECH provides a wonderful service for so many in our local community, and truly makes the Hutchinson area a better place to live, work, and raise a family. I am privileged to play a very small part in the continued success of TECH and its mission.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?IndependenceI have always admired the dedication TECH has to create independence for clients that allow them to live and work on their own.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

I sincerely enjoy the annual employee recognition banquet each year that honors the TECH staff and their dedication to clients.

I have always admired TECH for its untiring dedication to Hutchinson clients and their families.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?IndependenceMy favorite pillar is INDEPENDENCE, although all four are important. Our youngest son has been involved with TECH for 38 years and, through the assistance of many of the dedicated staff at TECH, is living as independently as possible.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

A favorite time with TECH was when I served on the Operations Board, during which time we developed the new ALS facility, updated the TECH logo, and implemented the art studio at ALS.

I look forward to helping the TECH Foundation Board make strategic financial decisions to insure TECH’s ability to develop and grow into the future.

Which one of TECH’s Four Pillars means the most to you and why?Self WorthI think that self-worth can be the difference between success and failure and having a strong sense of being valued correlates to a person's happiness.

What has been your favorite memory so far, serving on the TECH board?

When I was young my mom was involved in the TECH Christmas tree auctions, and I remember going every year to help set up. I would just be in awe of all of the decorations, sparkly trees, and love for our community and the members that live in it.

I'm looking forward to helping make a difference in the lives of individuals that sometimes, when they cannot speak for themselves, need a caring voice.